MICROSOFT
Microsoft thinks your AI needs a makeover
Microsoft is testing a new feature called Portraits that gives Copilot animated faces during voice chats.
The feature is live in the US, UK, and Canada through Copilot Labs.
It includes 40 human-style avatars that move their heads, show expressions, and lip-sync in real time.
You can pick a face, choose a voice, and talk to Copilot as if you were speaking to a person.
The tech behind it is called VASA-1, which creates these animations from just one image, no need for complex 3D models.
TL;DR
40 avatars available now in Copilot Labs (US, UK, Canada)
Powered by VASA-1, which animates faces from one image
Restricted access with age limits, time caps, and AI labels
Limited access, major side-eye
Portraits is different from Microsoft’s earlier Copilot Appearances, which used cartoon-style blobs.
These new avatars look more human, but still not photorealistic.
Microsoft says the goal is to make voice conversations feel more natural.
But the rollout is limited: only users aged 18+ can try it, with time limits and clear labels showing it’s AI.
Other companies are also experimenting. X’s Grok chatbot now has 3D avatars, including anime-style companions.
Microsoft, however, is moving carefully to avoid safety risks.
Lowkey waiting for the day my AI rolls its eyes at me.